Seduction on the CEO's Terms by Charlene Sands Page A

dressed in that striking black suit, his dark hair groomed just so, his handsome face marred by just a hint of a beard and wearing those glasses that made him look sexier than a man had a right to look, her heart rate sped up like crazy.
    Rena leaned over to whisper. “Remember, weddings have a way of bringing out the best in people.”
    Ali swallowed hard.
    Joe focused his attention on her as he approached. “Is it time to cut the cake?”
    Joe was always spot on when it came to schedules. “Yes, I think it’s time.” She turned to Rena. “Ready?”
    â€œI’m ready. I’ll find Tony and meet you over by the cake table.”
    Both watched as Rena walked away. “I think everyone had a great time tonight,” Joe said.
    â€œI know I did.”
    Joe gazed into her eyes. “I’m feeling a little bit guilty,” he began, and Ali prayed he didn’t regret their kiss from a few minutes ago. She waited for him to explain. “A few people asked me if you were a party planner. You could have a very lucrative business here, if you wanted it.”
    â€œSo why are you guilty?”
    â€œBecause I told them you’re not interested in outside work. You did this as a favor to the family.”
    â€œThat’s not a lie.”
    â€œWell no, not technically. But I shouldn’t have answered for you. The fact is, I don’t want to lose you,” then Joe hesitated before adding, “as my personal assistant.”
    Ali smiled inwardly. Joe was slowly coming around. “You won’t.”
    Joe stared at her, unblinking then glanced at her lips. She returned his stare, wishing he’d kiss her again. But she knew that he wouldn’t in full view of the guests at the reception. Too many people knew Ali worked for Joe, and his reputation was at stake, along with hers.
    The irony struck her anew. Ali never wanted an office romance. She’d shied away from them all of her adult life, wanting to be treated as an equal in business and respected for her intellect. And as soon as she found a man who’d done that, she’d fallen hard for him.
    â€œI’m in the mood for something sweet,” Joe said, still glancing at her mouth.
    â€œHmm?” She cast him a curious look. It wasn’t like Joe to make innuendo. Could he have been teasing?
    He gestured with a slight nod toward the fondant cake decorated with white roses and greenery. “Cake. Let’s go and see how good your pastry chef is.” He’s not her pastry chef. She’d simply hired him, but Ali stifled her comment. “I’d like that. Royce recommended him highly.”
    Joe’s lips twisted but he didn’t reply.
    And ten minutes later, Ali sat at their table in sugar heaven. The mango-filled white cake was too delicious for words. “Mmm.”
    â€œIt’s pretty damn good.” Joe had his piece of cake polished off in seconds.
    Ali scooped up the last bit of frosting with her fork, relishing every bite, aware that Joe watched her every move. When the owner of a neighboring winery stopped by the table asking to speak to Joe for a second, he agreed and rose from his seat, bending to whisper in her ear. “Excuse me, I’ll be right back.”
    Goose bumps erupted on her arms, and Ali’s body sizzled. She cast him a quick acknowledgment and watched him leave. This was new for her. She’d never received so much attention from Joe, and she wanted it to continue. The handsome prince had kissed her and stolen her heart. But she feared her reverse Cinderella night was quickly coming to an end. Now what?
    The final dance of the evening was announced. Everyone stopped their conversations and mingled around the dance floor. The band played an old classic tune “I Want to Walk You Home,” and Rena, dressed in an ivory-colored satin maternity dress, swirled around on Tony’s arm, glowing with joy.
    Their happiness was